How to Keep Your Cellphone, iPod, and Other Gadgets Safe at the Beach

July Fourth is approaching fast and that means you're probably gearing up for a weekend getaway. If a trip to the beach is on your itinerary, I'm sure your Android, iPod, eBook, and other tech toys will be going with you. So think fast about investing in some gear to protect your must-have electronics from the sand and surf. Trust me; you'll thanking yourself in the long run.

While I've yet to test these items, my tech antennae sense that these are the ones you want:

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H2OAudio claims its Amphibx Waterproof Armband ($79.99) will keep your iPhone, iPod Touch, or any large MP3 player dry as a bone, just in case you were thinking of taking it down to the water with you for a quick dip. If you're a swimmer, pick up the Otterbox Armor Sport Package ($39.95) to protect your iPod. It includes waterproof headphones, a case, and an armband. Sounds like a triple threat to me!

Are you a reader, not a listener? You'll want the vividly-colored Trendy Digital WaterGuard ($19.99) to keep your IPad or Kindle free of water, dust, dirt, and sand. For your Kindle, another option is the Leisure Jacket by M-Edge ($34.99). Stylish and padded, this case features a clear, vinyl, read-through, cover to shelter it from the elements. If you're willing to splurge, opt for M-Edge's Guardian Case ($79.99) which offers a watertight seal and comes in patriotic shades of red and blue.

Last but not least, don't forget about your camera. Most likely, you'll have to choose one specifically designed for your model but you can buy a generic pack that's one-size fits all. On the market for a beach-friendly digital camera, check out my post on the FujiFilm Waterproof Camera.

My top tips for taking tech to the beach:

If you don't want to pony up for a pricey case, keep your gear in a zipper-top plastic bag. (It'll help keep out water and sand but won't offer any protection against dropping.)

Before you seal the bag, make sure both it and its contents are completely dry-otherwise the bag will act as a steamer!